Australian Damian Cudlin is making his second MotoGP appearance in as many events, this time standing in for Hector Barbera at Aspar Ducati, while Loris Capirossi is returning to action for Pramac Ducati.

Capirossi concluded day one in 14th place, ahead of Karel Abraham (Cardion AB) and Toni Elias (LCR), with Cudlin 3.183sec from Stoner in 17th and last. Reports from Phillip Island suggest that Aspar have been unable to reach an agreement to continue with Ducati machinery next season.